He may be only 174cm tall, but Jack Lonie’s stature at St Kilda is growing by the week.
The 22-year-old has put together arguably his best month of football since arriving at the club, kicking 10 goals in the past four games.
But rather than talk up his own form on Saturday night after a narrow loss to Hawthorn, Lonie’s leadership and faith in his teammates shone through.
“Our year hasn’t gone to plan, but the thing that’s really gelled and worked is our ability to stay together as a group,” Lonie told 3AW.
“I suppose there’s been a lot of media hype around the club, and I think the 46 blokes on the list have been really tight, and that’s a credit to us.
The livewire also drew attention to the untiring efforts of his captain Jarryn Geary, saying he doesn’t often get the external recognition Lonie feels he deserves.
Skipper Jarryn Geary doesn't receive the plaudits Jack Lonie believes he deserves
“I think Jarryn Geary’s led (the togetherness) mostly,” he said.
“Internally he’s valued really highly, and he’s got a great balance between having a laugh and when to be serious.
“We all love playing for him, and I think the whole leadership group have probably learned a lot this year and built their game. They can take that forward into the next few years, and I think hopefully we can be stronger for it.”
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Lonie notches up his 50th game in red, white and black this weekend, but the small forward was hesitant to rest on his laurels.
“I think I’ve got a long way to go,” said Lonie.
“I know I can back my ability, but in terms of belonging (at this level), I think I’ve probably got to get through a full season first.
“We’ll start that hopefully next year and finish off this year really strongly and we’ll see where it takes me.”
His loyalty to his mates and unrelenting hunger for the fight is a trait that’s endeared him to the red, white and black faithful, and Lonie hopes to repay the faith shown in him in years to come.
“I love this club, and love playing for them and love playing with the boys, so hopefully I can be here as long as I can.”
